Nico Williams attracts Chelsea interest ahead of January window

Chelsea are reportedly preparing an €80m offer for Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams as interest in the Spain international continues to grow ahead of the next transfer window.

The London club are said to be considering a move for Williams as early as January, putting them alongside Arsenal and Manchester United among the clubs linked with the 24-year-old.

According to Fichajes, Chelsea are ready to invest €80m in an attempt to persuade Athletic Bilbao to part with their highly rated winger. Such an offer would put Chelsea firmly in the picture for a player who has attracted interest from several major European clubs.

However, the possibility of Williams leaving Athletic Bilbao is not a new development.

Barcelona made an attempt to sign the winger in the summer of 2025 but were unable to reach an agreement with the Basque club.

Arsenal have also been repeatedly linked with Williams. The Gunners were considered among his potential destinations during the previous transfer window, but a deal failed to materialise.

Manchester United have now emerged as another reported suitor, adding further competition for Chelsea if the Premier League clubs decide to make formal approaches for the winger.

Athletic Bilbao remain in a strong position because of Williams’ current contract.

The Spanish international is reportedly tied to the club until 2035, while his release clause is understood to be €90m. Athletic Bilbao are therefore not expected to make it easy for interested clubs to negotiate a lower price.

That could leave Chelsea with a decision to make if their reported €80m proposal is made. They may need to increase the offer to match the release clause if they want to secure Williams.

The winger’s record for Athletic Bilbao helps explain the level of interest surrounding him.

Since making his professional debut for the club, Williams has scored 38 goals and provided 37 assists in 204 official appearances.

His numbers this season include one goal in five La Liga appearances, while his performances for Spain have also established him as an important international player.

Williams has earned 36 caps for Spain and has scored six goals for the national team.

His combination of club experience and international pedigree has continued to attract attention, with Chelsea now reportedly considering a major financial commitment to bring him to England.

For the moment, Athletic Bilbao hold the strongest position in any potential negotiations because of the winger’s long contract and reported €90m release clause.

With Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United all linked with the player, Williams’ future could become one of the major transfer stories ahead of the next window.